The Essential Winter Packing List for Europe

This winter packing list for Europe will provide inspiration into what the Europeans wear and how to prepare.

Winter, as well as any time of the year, is still an amazing time to visit! There is plenty to do and see, whether indoors or outside. This list will provide you with the essentials of your winter packing list and feature styles that can help you blend in, even if you aren’t European!

What is the weather during winter in Europe?

Winter in Europe is definitely varied, but still fairly cold in most places! Spain and Italy can be warmer and sunnier the farther south you go, although you shouldn’t be expecting a tropical climate! In most of Western Europe, such as France, UK, Germany, and the Netherlands, it’s rare to see snowfall in winter, unless you are close to the mountains. Farther north, in Scandinavia, it can be extremely cold so plan your trip accordingly!

Where to go in Europe in winter

You can still do plenty of sightseeing in Europe during winter! A huge plus of visiting Europe in winter, is that you get to see the Christmas markets in Europe! Christmas markets can be found in Germany, Switzerland, Austria, and France, among others and are an amazing experience to do.

Another advantage of winter in Europe is the chance to see the Northern Lights in Scandinavia! While it may be cold, this incredible phenomenon is only visible during the winter months in Denmark, Iceland, Sweden, and Finland.

If the cold isn’t really your thing, there are also several destinations you can see if you’re wanting to escape the winter in Europe.

What to wear in Europe in winter

The winter style in Europe can be a bit different from what you find in the US or Latin America. Europeans tend to always dress a bit nice for the most part. You can still wear heavy duty Northface jackets (and they do in fact!), but you’ll also find oversized coats that make you feel like you’re walking the runway. Each country is different, but black and other neutral colors is usually the way to go when traveling Europe in winter. If you fully want to blend in, check out these Dos and Don’ts of standing out as an American in Europe.

Essential Winter Packing List for Europe

Accessories

Scarves — A scarf is a must for those harsh and cold weather winds! Plus, on trains and buses you can take it off and use it as a pillow. I love double function items!

Gloves — Some fashionable leather gloves to keep your hands warm and dry

Hat — Bring a few cozy hats that you’ll actually want to wear when you leave the hotel

Bag — The perfect bag to carry metro tickets, your wallet, and possibly any purchases during the day!

Socks — Grab some comfy and warm wool socks to keep your toes and legs warm, whether you wear sneakers or boots!

Tops

Coats — As your first layer, heavy coats will help shield you from the cold. Wear one on the plane and pack one in your bag so you have a little bit of variety. The best coats for Europe in winter are a bit oversized so you can wear more and more layers

Sweaters — Pick some soft and warm sweaters to throw on underneath your coat

Long sleeve shirts — Layer it up with some long sleeve shirts under your sweater, including cute ones for nice dinners!

Camis — to go underneath everything and provide a base layer of warmth!

Bottoms

Pants/jeans — Pants or jeans according to your preference. Europeans still wear jeans, although other kinds of trousers are a bit more common.

Comfy leggings — Leggings to layer underneath jeans or other pants + serve as pajama pants if you so wish! Bonus if they’re fleece-lined on the inside for extra comfort and warmth.

Shoes

Boots — Stylish and functional boots for European winter will keep you warm as you wander the cobblestones of medieval towns or through snow. I am OBSESSED with this pair!

Sneakers — Sometimes boots can get uncomfortable, so bring along some sneakers for ease of walking

With this winter packing list for Europe, you should be all set to go!